The Determinants of Participation in Physical Activity in Malaysia

OBJECTIVES: In light of the importance of physical activity, the aim of the present study is to examine the factors affecting participation in physical activity among adults in Malaysia. METHODS: A logistic regression model and the Third National Health and Morbidity Survey consisting of 30,992 respondents were used. RESULTS: Age, income, gender, education, marital status, region, house locality, job characteristics, and medical conditions are significantly associated with participation in physical activity. In particular, old individuals, high income earners, females, the well-educated, widowed or divorced individuals, East Malaysians, urban dwellers, the unemployed, and individuals who are not diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia are less likely to be physically active than others. CONCLUSION: Because sociodemographic and health factors play an important role in determining physical activity, the government should take them into account when formulating policy.